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Screening Room
272 pages, 2016
In this evocative personal history, writer Alan Lightman chronicles his return to Memphis and the stifling home he had been so eager to flee forty years earlier. As aging uncles and aunts retell old stories, he finds himself reconsidering long-held beliefs about his larger-than-life grandfather and his quiet, inscrutable father.
The result is an unforgettable family saga set against the pulsing backdrop of Memphis—its country clubs and juke joints, its rhythm and blues, its segregated movie theaters, its barbecue and pecan pie—including encounters with Elvis Presley and Martin Luther King Jr.
In Screening Room, Alan Lightman takes us on a journey through his family's past. He explores the history of his grandfather, a movie theater magnate in the South, and how his life and business shaped the family's legacy. It's a fascinating look into the past that shows us how our ancestors can influence our present.
The book gives us a deep understanding of the South, its culture, and its history. Lightman paints a vivid picture of the South, with its unique traditions, values, and complexities. It's a great read for anyone interested in understanding this part of America better.
Screening Room is a testament to the power of storytelling. Lightman's narrative is engaging and compelling, drawing the reader into his family's story. It's a reminder of how stories can connect us, teach us, and help us understand our own lives better.
Lightman doesn't shy away from discussing the racial tensions that were prevalent in the South during his grandfather's time. He explores this difficult topic with sensitivity and insight, providing a nuanced perspective on a complex issue.
The book also explores the influence of cinema on society and individuals. Through the story of his grandfather's movie theater business, Lightman shows how movies can shape our perceptions, our dreams, and our lives. It's a fascinating look into the power of cinema.